12 May 2022

The Home Office is launching a new immigration route, the High Potential Individual (‘HPI’), for graduates from top international universities on 30 May 2022. The route shares some similarities with the Graduate route, but also has a number of advantages over that route.

Who is eligible?
Anyone who has obtained a degree equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree (or higher) in an institution named on the Global Universities List within the past five years can apply.

The Global Universities List features the top 50 non-UK universities appearing on at least two of the following ranking systems: Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings and The Academic Ranking of World Universities. The list will be updated annually and the list of eligible institutions for the past six years can be viewed here.

How long can individuals stay?
Individuals who obtain a PhD will be granted three years’ permission whilst all other individuals will be granted two years’ permission. It is not possible to extend permission on the route, but it is possible to switch into another route (eg Skilled Worker).

Is it a route to settlement?
No, time spent under this route does not lead to settlement in the UK, but time spent under the category can count towards 10 years lawful residence in the UK for indefinite leave to remain (‘IRL’) purposes.

Can individuals work?
Yes, individuals are allowed to work and study (subject to limitations). As this is an unsponsored route, there is no salary threshold or sponsor licence fee, making it an attractive option for employers.

What are the advantages of the route compared to the Graduate route?
Unlike the Graduate route, individuals are not required to be in the UK at the date of application and do not need to hold permission as a Student; applicants can apply up to five years after the date they obtained their degree.

Another advantage of the HPI category compared to the Graduate route is the more generous provisions for dependants. Unlike the Graduate route, dependants are not required to have held permission as dependants whilst the applicant was on the Student route to qualify as dependants on the HPI route.

What are the disadvantages of the route compared to the Graduate route?
Applicants under the HPI route must demonstrate English language ability to at least level B1 (intermediate); Graduate applicants automatically satisfy this requirement by virtue of the fact that they have been awarded a UK degree.

Get in touch
To learn more about forthcoming changes to UK immigration law, see our website, contact your assigned LDI lawyer or email enquiries@lauradevine.com.